1978 Ford Falcon 500 review from Australia and New Zealand
"Extremely cheap and reliable family towcar"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Reconditioned motor & c4 fitted 285000km.
Steering components needing an entire overhaul 290000km.
Rear axle bearings leaking since bought.
Gearbox leakage 290000km +
Rocker cover leak 250000km.
General comments?
The original motor was OK, but seemed to burn excessive oil.
Reconditioned motor and C4 gearbox fitted, never broken down.
Economy wise, on the open road expect 300-400 kms on one tank.
Very dear around town.
Handles well, but sways a bit too much
steering play cannot be eliminated.
Performance is very good according to the weight ratio.
Top speed at the moment 185km.
Front seats too low.
Very roomy.
Abundant torque.
OK as a first car if you have abundant source of cheap petrol.
Excellent tow vehicle.
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![]() ![]() | Hard working bargain you can pick up for a steal |
![]() ![]() | 1978 - Falcon 500 4.1Lt 6 cylinder high compression A family sized wheel spinning performance beast! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 4.1 Lt High Compression Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 7/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 275000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 300000 kilometres |
| Date of Entry | 10th April, 2003 |

